Apparatus and method for single unit access display

ABSTRACT

A product display apparatus including a product supply module that includes a support frame and defines a storage area. A door assembly coupled to the support frame is structured to provide bulk access to the storage area in an open position and prevent bulk access to the storage area in the closed position. A return area is defined between the support frame and the top of the door assembly while a retrieval area is defined between the support frame and the bottom of the door assembly. A modular display portion is coupled to the door assembly that extends into the retrieval area to define a single unit retrieval opening. A load block member may be disposed in the retrieval area to permit retrieval of a product, but inhibit return of a product. A retrieval detector may be configured to detect when a product has been withdrawn through the retrieval area and generate an alert upon detection of rapid product removal.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to productdisplays and, more particularly, to a product display apparatus that isstructured to store and dispense displayed products in a controlledmanner.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Product display apparatuses or “product displays” are used to showcaseproducts for sale and to entice customers to purchase the products.Product displays may be used to store new, high-priced, high-margin, orhigh-volume products and may be located near high-traffic customerpathways such as a store entrance or along a main aisle.

Applicant has identified a number of deficiencies and problemsassociated with the manufacture, operation, use, and monitoring ofproduct displays. Through applied effort, ingenuity, and innovation,Applicant has solved many of these identified problems by developing asolution that is embodied by the present invention, which is describedin detail below.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Various embodiments of the invention are directed to a product display,and an associated system, that reduces or eliminates retail theft, andhas a modular, easy to use, and aesthetically pleasing design. Theproduct display can be housed within a shelf, a wall cavity, or in amobile cart. The product display may be used individually or incombination with several other similar or differently configured productdisplays.

Product displays structured in accordance with various embodiments ofthe invention may be configured to store and display products such asDVDs, video games, CDs, computer software, cosmetics, fragrances, orother items that may be the subject of retail theft. As described indetail below, product displays structured in accordance with the presentinvention may be customized or adjusted to fit the size, shape, andprofile of the product selected for display. The term profile, as usedherein is defined to include a shape that corresponds to a side of aproduct or the shape of an aperture that permits a single product topass through the aperture in a specific insertion alignment.

In one embodiment, the product display includes a product supply modulethat defines a storage area for holding a supply of products. A supportframe at least partially defines a bulk access opening that providesbulk access to the product supply module. A door assembly is coupled tothe support frame and structured to provide bulk access to the storagearea through the bulk access opening in an open position and to preventbulk access to the storage area in a closed position. The productdisplay defines a return area between the door assembly and the supportframe proximate a first side of the door assembly. The product displaydefines a retrieval area between the door assembly and the support frameproximate a second side of the door assembly. Finally, a modular displayportion may be coupled to the door assembly, wherein the modular displayportion extends at least partially into the retrieval area to define asingle unit retrieval opening.

In some embodiments, the modular display portion is structured foradjustment between a first configuration and a second configuration. Inthe first configuration, the modular display portion extends at leastpartially into the retrieval area to define a first single unitretrieval opening. In the second configuration, the modular displayportion extends at least partially into the retrieval area to define asecond single unit retrieval opening.

Some embodiments may include a second modular display portion that isstructured for coupling to the door assembly in place of the modulardisplay portion such that the second modular display portion extends atleast partially into the retrieval area to define a second single unitretrieval opening. The second single unit retrieval opening may define adifferent profile than the single unit retrieval opening.

Embodiments may include a modular display portion that extends at leastpartially into the return area to define a single unit return opening. Asecond modular display portion may be included that is structured forcoupling to the door assembly in place of the modular display portionsuch that the second modular display portion extends at least partiallyinto the return area to define a second single unit return opening. Thesecond single unit return opening may define a different profile thanthe single unit return opening.

In still other embodiments, the door assembly may define a displaycavity configured to present a product for protected viewing by acustomer, i.e., the product may be viewed, but not handled by thecustomer. The door assembly may comprise a lock structured to secure thedoor assembly in the closed position. In some embodiments, the lock maybe configured to be unlocked using a magnetic key.

Embodiments of a product display may include a retrieval detectorpositioned proximate the single unit retrieval opening and configured togenerate a retrieval output in response to a product being withdrawnfrom the single unit retrieval opening. A processor may be disposed incommunication with the retrieval detector and configured to receive theretrieval output. The processor may be further configured to determine afrequency associated with the receipt of the retrieval output and togenerate an alert upon the frequency exceeding a predetermined value.The processor may initiate a timer and a counter upon receiving theretrieval output. In one embodiment, the processor increments thecounter upon receipt of a second retrieval output, a third retrievaloutput, and so on, such that if the counter is incremented to reach apredetermined value before the timer reaches a time-out value, theprocessor generates an alert. In still another embodiment, the retrievaldetector may be configured to generate a storage output when the storagearea is empty.

Product displays structured in accordance with embodiments discussedherein may also include a return detector positioned proximate thesingle unit return opening and configured to generate a return output inresponse to a product being returned through the single unit returnopening. A processor may be disposed in communication with the retrievaldetector and the return detector and may be configured to receive theretrieval output and the return output. The processor may initiate atimer and a counter upon receiving the retrieval output and mayincrement the counter upon receipt of a second retrieval output, a thirdretrieval output, and so on. If the counter reaches a predeterminedvalue before the timer reaches a time-out value, the processor maygenerate an alert. In some embodiments, the processor decrements thecounter upon receipt of the return output.

Product display embodiments may include a load block member disposed inthe retrieval area that is configured to define a blocked position and aretrieval position. The load block member is driven from the blockedposition to the retrieval position by a user grasping the product withinthe storage area of the product display and withdrawing the productthrough the retrieval area. A second load block member may be disposedin the retrieval area that is independently moveable relative to thefirst load block member. In some embodiments, the load block member maybe disposed proximate a first side of the retrieval area and the secondload block member may be disposed proximate a second side of theretrieval area wherein an access port is defined between the load blockmember and the second load block member for allowing the user to graspthe product within the storage area.

The load block member may be coupled to the door assembly by a hinge andthe load block member may rotate from the blocked position to theretrieval position about the hinge. The load block member may be biasedtoward the blocked position. Notably, load block members structuredaccording to various embodiments are configured to allow the user tograsp the product within the storage area in the blocked position andalso to prevent return of a retrieved product through the retrieval areain the blocked position.

Another embodiment is directed to a method of generating an alertincluding the steps of detecting withdrawal of a product from thestorage area through the single unit retrieval opening, initiating atimer to proceed to a time-out value in response to detecting thewithdrawal of the product, detecting withdrawal of a second product fromthe storage area through the single unit retrieval opening, incrementinga counter in response to detecting the withdrawal of the second product,and signaling an alert upon the counter reaching a predetermined valueprior to the timer reaching the time-out value. The steps for generatingan alert may further include detecting the return of a product to thestorage area through the return area and decrementing the counter inresponse to detecting return of the product to the storage area.

In some embodiments, the timer may be terminated when the counter isdecremented to zero. In other embodiments, the alert may include anaudible alarm, may activate a recording device to begin recording, ormay bookmark a recording already in progress to identify points ofactivity associated with the display apparatus.

Product displays structured in accordance with other embodiments mayinclude a processor that is configured to detect a number of productsremoved from the storage area through the single unit retrieval openingwithin a monitor period. The processor may further detect a number ofproducts returned to the storage area through the return area within themonitor period, subtract the number of products returned from the numberof products removed to determine a product count, and generate an alertupon the product count reaching a predetermined value. The processor mayalso set the product count to zero upon termination of the monitorperiod.

In some embodiments, the processor may be configured to monitor a secondmonitor period that at least partially overlaps the first monitorperiod. The processor may also be configured to activate a recordingdevice to record activity associated with the display apparatus inresponse to the alert. The processor may be configured to identifyportions of a memory associated with a recording device in response tothe alert. Finally, the processor may be configured to activate an alarmin response to the alert.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

Having thus described the invention in general terms, reference will nowbe made to the accompanying drawings, which are not necessarily drawn toscale, and wherein:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a product display apparatus according toone embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the product display apparatus accordingto the embodiment of FIG. 1, further including the product;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a product display apparatus having adoor assembly configured in an open position according to one embodimentof the present invention;

FIG. 4 is an exploded view of a door assembly and a modular displayportion according to one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a modular display portion according toone embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a modular display portion according toanother embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a modular display portion according toyet another embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a series of product display apparatusesin a display structure according to one embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a product display apparatus with returnand retrieval areas restricted to define a single unit return openingand a single unit retrieval opening, respectively, according to oneembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 10A is a perspective view of load blocking members extending fromthe product display apparatus shown in FIG. 2, wherein the load blockingmembers are in the blocked position according to one embodiment of thepresent invention;

FIG. 10B is a perspective view of the load blocking members depicted inFIG. 10A in the retrieval position;

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a key and key alignment features forunlocking a product display apparatus lock according to one embodimentof the present invention;

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a lock for a product display apparatusaccording to one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 13 is a section view of the product supply module depicted in FIG.3, taken along section lines A-A further including a product;

FIG. 14 is a section view of the product supply module depicted in FIG.12, further including a storage area insert according to one embodimentof the present invention;

FIG. 15 is a flow diagram illustrating a method for generating an alertaccording to one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 16 is a flow diagram illustrating a method for generating an alertaccording to another embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 17 is a flow diagram illustrating a method for generating an alertaccording to yet another embodiment of the present invention; and

FIG. 18 is a schematic diagram of a display system structured accordingto one embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present invention now will be described more fully hereinafter withreference to the accompanying drawings, in which some, but not allembodiments of the invention are shown. Indeed, the invention may beembodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limitedto the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments areprovided so that this disclosure will satisfy applicable legalrequirements. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout.

Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to a productdisplay apparatus configured to receive a supply of products anddispense the products individually. For ease of explanation, however,the specification and accompanying figures will refer to the display anddispensing of recordable media (DVDs, CDs, video games, etc.) althoughit is to be understood that any type of retail article may be displayedand dispensed from product displays structured according to theinventive concepts herein defined.

FIG. 1 illustrates a product display apparatus 100 structured accordingto one embodiment of the invention. The depicted product displayapparatus 100 includes a product supply module 110 that may beconfigured to be inserted into a display housing 120 of a displaystructures such as a display case, a shelf, a retail aisle partition, awall, or other similar consumer display surface. In other embodiments,the product supply module may be used as a stand-alone display disposedon a counter in a retail store.

As described in greater detail below, product display apparatusesstructured according to various embodiments of the invention may beconfigured to: (1) prevent bulk retrieval of displayed products toreduce the likelihood of high-volume retail theft, (2) define a singleunit retrieval opening that is configured ensure single productretrieval by matching the size, shape, or profile of a displayedproduct, (3) define a single unit return opening that is configured toreduce product return errors by matching the size, shape, or profile ofa displayed product, (4) prevent product loading or return through thesingle unit retrieval opening while encouraging easy retrieval access ofdisplayed products, (5) provide easy and reliable adjustment of theproduct display apparatus to accommodate products having differingsizes, shapes, or profiles, (6) automatically detect instances ofproduct retrieval and return, (7) and transmit one or more alertconditions in response to detecting various product-related conditions.The above configurations are provided for illustration purposes andshould not be construed being required by each embodiment describedherein. As will be apparent to one of skill in the art, variousembodiments will embody one or more of the above configurations whileothers do not.

The depicted product supply module 110 defines a top, a bottom, twosides, and a back panel. Although depicted as defining a generallyrectangular shape, other product supply module shapes (e.g., square,rounded, etc.) may be used in accordance with embodiments of theinvention as will be apparent to one of skill in the art. The productsupply module 110 defines a storage area 129 that is structured toreceive and store a plurality products.

The product supply module 110 further comprises a support frame 128proximate the front of the product supply module 110. The depictedproduct supply module 110 and support frame 128 are formed as anintegral injection molded unit, however, in other embodiments, may bediscrete components. A door assembly 130 is hingedly coupled to thesupport frame 128 and is moveable between an open position and a closedposition, wherein the open position may include a partially openposition. The closed position is achieved when the portion of the doorassembly 130 opposite the hinge is seated against the support frame 128.The depicted display module 110 includes a lock for securing the doorassembly 130 in the closed position.

When the door assembly 130 is in the open position, the product supplymodule 110 defines a bulk access opening 112 as shown FIG. 3. In thedepicted embodiment, the support frame 128 at least partially surroundsand thereby defines the bulk access opening 112. The bulk access opening112 provides bulk-access to the storage area 129, i.e., the opening islarge enough such that no mechanical or structural impediment existsthat might prevent an operator from inserting or removing two or moreproducts from the storage area 129. The bulk access opening 112 issubstantially blocked when the door assembly 130 is in the closedposition as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2.

The depicted product supply module 110 defines a return area 104 betweenthe door assembly 130 and the support frame 128 proximate a first side(e.g., an upper side) of the door assembly 130 as shown in FIGS. 1 and2. The depicted product supply module 110 also defines a retrieval area106 between the door assembly 130 and the support frame 128 proximate asecond side (e.g., a lower side) of the door assembly 130. In thedepicted embodiment, the return area 104 and the retrieval area 106 aresimply portions of the bulk access opening 112 that are not blocked whenthe door assembly 130 is placed in the closed position. In oneembodiment, a grasping recess 162 located below the retrieval area 106may facilitate easy grasping of a bottom-most product 124 in storagearea 129. In another embodiment, the return area 104 and/or theretrieval area 106 may be structured to accommodate the return orretrieval of a single displayed product. In still another embodiment,the return area 104 and/or retrieval area 106 may be structured to belarger that the largest product intended to be displayed by the productsupply apparatus. In still other embodiments, the return area 104 maydefine a relatively larger size and/or shape than the retrieval area104.

The illustrated embodiment depicts a product display 100 that may beinserted into a variety of different display structures including, butnot limited to, a mobile display cart, a single-unit housing, a displaywall, a shelf, or any number of structures. The product display may beattached to the display structure through any conventional means such asscrews, rivets, or other attaching means. Though the illustratedembodiment shows a product supply module 110 coupled to the supportframe 128 as a single unit, other embodiments of the present inventionmay include a storage area defined by a shelf or cavity within a displaysystem. For example, a shelf may be configured with adjustablepartitions that can be configured to provide a supply module for aproduct display that is attached to the front of the shelf. Embodimentsof the present invention may only require a support frame with a doorassembly that can be attached to a pre-existing supply cavity to convertsaid supply cavity into a single-unit access display.

Various embodiments of the invention may include a modular displayportion 140 coupled to the door assembly 130. In one embodiment, themodular display portion 140 may define a size and shape that conformsgenerally to that of the door assembly as shown in FIGS. 1-3. In otherembodiments, the modular display portion 140 may be structured to extendat least partially beyond the door assembly 130 into the retrieval area106 as shown in FIG. 9. In this way, the modular display portion 140 maydefine a single unit retrieval opening 116 that is structured to allow acustomer to remove only a single product from the product supply module110 by restricting the size and/or shape of the retrieval area 106 to aprofile to match the profile of a single product. This structure may beparticularly useful in embodiments where the retrieval opening 106 ismanufactured to define a standard size capable of accommodatingrelatively large products but wherein it is desirable to customize thesize and/or shape of the retrieval area, i.e., to define a single unitretrieval opening 116, at the retail store location to adapt the productdisplay apparatus to dispense products having a relatively smaller size,shape, or differing profile.

In another embodiment, the modular display portion 140 may be structuredto extend at least partially into the return area 104 to define a singleunit return opening 114 that is configured to permit a user to returnonly a single product to the storage area 129 of the product supplymodule 110. In another embodiment, the single unit return opening 114may be structured to allow the return of products having a selectedsize, shape, and/or profile. In this way, the display product displayapparatus may be configured to prevent products having a different size,shape, or profile (e.g., a DVD) from being returned into a storage areatargeted for a selected product (e.g., a CD).

As shown in FIGS. 1, 2 and 3, the door assembly 130 is attachable to themodular display portion 140 to define a display cavity 138 within thedoor assembly 130. The display cavity 138 may be configured to hold adisplay product 122 representative of the plurality of products 124 keptwithin the storage area 129 of the product supply module 110. Thedisplay product 122 is held within the door assembly 130 by the modulardisplay portion 140 for protected viewing by the consumer, i.e., theproduct is visible to the consumer, but not accessible.

In some embodiments, the modular display portion 140 may snap or slideinto the door assembly 130 when the door assembly is in the openposition; however, when the door assembly 130 is in the closed andlocked position; access to the modular display portion 140 isprohibited. FIG. 4 depicts the door assembly 130 separated from themodular display portion 140. The modular display portion 140 may includesnap tabs 144 that are releasably received by the door case 131 of thedoor assembly 140 to allow easy, tool-free interchangeability with thedoor assembly 130. Other modular display portion 140 attachmentconfigurations may be used as will be apparent to one of ordinary skillin the art in view of this disclosure.

Modular display portions structured in accordance with variousembodiments of the invention may be tailored or customized to a selectedproduct. For example, as discussed above, the modular display portionsmay be structured to define specific single unit retrieval and/or singleunit return openings that are sized to receive products having aselected size, shape, and/or profile. Modular display portions may alsobe configured to define a pocket structured to at least partiallyreceive and position a product for display within the door assembly,i.e., behind the door case as discussed in greater detail below.

For illustration purposes, the modular display portion 140 shown in FIG.4 is configured to display a standard-sized DVD package while themodular display portion 140′ illustrated in FIG. 5 is configured todisplay a standard-sized CD jewel case. Each modular display portion140, 140′ defines a pocket 50, 50′ or support structure 52, 52′ for atleast partially receiving and positioning a product for display withinthe door assembly. In some embodiments, the modular display portion neednot define a pocket and may simply include one or more supportstructures as shown in FIGS. 6 and 7. The term “support structures” isnot limited to a shelf-like structure as illustrated in the figures andmay refer more broadly to any structure adapted to support a displayedproduct including, for example, tabs positioned on opposite sides of theproduct such that the product may be snapped into place.

In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 6, the modular display portion 140″may include a display screen 145 such as a liquid crystal display (LCD)in lieu of, or in addition to the displayed product 122. The modulardisplay portion 140″ may also include one or more small speakers 146.For example, if a DVD of a movie is the product contained within theproduct supply module, a modular display 140″ with a display screen 145may show a promotional video trailer advertising the movie. If there area plurality of product display apparatuses in the same vicinity, audiothat would accompany such a video display may be initiated by pressingan attached button 150, accessible through the door case 131 of the doorassembly 130, to prevent the plurality of audio tracks creating adistracting cacophony in the area of the display. A further iteration ofthis embodiment may be to display a picture of the DVD movie cover onthe display screen 145 wherein a customer can press the attached button150 to start the movie trailer with sound on the display screen. Thisapplication may also apply to audio discs by showing a music video orsimply playing audio from the disc. Power for the display screen 145 andthe speakers 146 may come from a battery (not shown) stored within themodular display portion 140″, from a battery stored elsewhere in theproduct display apparatus, or from a remote source (e.g., electricoutlet) that is placed in electric communication with the productdisplay apparatus.

In another embodiment, as depicted in FIG. 7, the modular displayportion 140′″ may include a smaller display screen 148 that may displayonly price information or a scrolling marquee of information. Themodular display portion 140′″ incorporating the smaller display screen148 may also accommodate a pocket and/or support structure for receivingand positioning a display product 122.

Still other embodiments of the modular display portion are illustratedin FIG. 8 wherein a plurality of product displays 100 a, 100 b, 100 c,and 100 d are arranged in a single display structure 101. The displaystructure 101 of the depicted embodiment may be configured for displayon a counter in a store or in a typical shelf in a grocery store amongother locations. The modular display portions 140 a, 140 b, 140 c, 140 dare configured for displaying and dispensing products of differingsizes, shapes, and/or profiles. For example, modular portion 140 b ofproduct display 100 b is configured to display three cylindricalproducts 41 such as three lipsticks, and dispense each one below thecorresponding displayed product. A similar product display isillustrated in the open position at product display 100 a wherein astorage area insert 119, discussed further below, may be configured toaccommodate three columns of products as shown for dispensing throughthree discrete holes 42 in the modular display portion 140 a.

Another embodiment illustrated in FIG. 8 is shown in product display 100c wherein a product 43 is displayed and dispensed that defines acircular shape 43 a and an elliptical profile 43 b, such as a make-upcompact. The support structure 45 of product display 100 c defines acircular pocket 46 to hold the product 43 that defines a circular shape43 a. Product display 100 d is configured to display and dispense aproduct 44 that defines a square shape 44 a and a rectangular profile 44b. The support structure 47 of product display 100 d defines a squarepocket 48 to hold the product 44 that defines a square shape 44 a. Asthe profile of the products 43 and 44 are both narrower and thinner thanthe retrieval area, the modular display portions 140 c, 140 d extend atleast partially into the retrieval area to restrict the size, shape,and/or profile of the single unit retrieval openings 116 c, 116 d to asize, shape, and/or profile that mechanically allows only a singleproduct 43, 44 to be removed from the storage area at one time. In thedepicted embodiment, the single unit retrieval openings 116 c 116 d areapproximately congruent with the size, shape, and/or profile of aproperly aligned side of the corresponding products 43, 44.

Though not illustrated, it may be desirable for the modular displayportion to be configured to block access to the retrieval areacompletely or to define a retrieval area that is too small to allow aproduct to be retrieved. Such an embodiment may be useful for a displaysystem having one or more product supply modules that are empty or notcurrently in use. In another embodiment, although several mutuallyadjacent product display modules may be configured to store a selectedproduct (perhaps sharing a common or linked storage area), the retailermay find it desirable for customers to retrieve the product from onlyone of the product display modules. Thus, the modular display portionsof the remaining product display modules may be configured to blockaccess to their respective retrieval areas. In such an embodiment, theblocked product display modules may serve as a storage location forexcess stock. In still another embodiment, blocked product displaymodules may be used to display a product prior to it being available forsale, such as a video game that is scheduled for release at some futuredate.

As noted above, modular display portions structured in accordance withvarious embodiments are customized and interchangeable such that a firstmodular display portion may be removed from the door assembly and asecond modular display portion may be attached in its place. As comparedto the first modular display portion, the second modular display portionmay be configured to restrict the size of the single unit return opening114 and the single unit retrieval opening 116 as illustrated in FIG. 9.When a plurality of product displays are used in close proximity to oneanother, they may each contain a different size product such as CDsversus DVDs. It may be desirable to prevent a customer from returningthe DVDs of one product display to the return area or single unit returnopening of an adjacent product display that is intended for CDs.Further, since the profile of a typical CD jewel case is thinner thanthe profile of a typical DVD case, it may be desirable to ensure thatonly one CD may be removed from the single unit retrieval opening, whichmay not be ensured if the single unit retrieval opening is sizedaccording to the profile of a DVD. This may be accomplished byrestricting the size of the single unit return and retrieval openings114, 116 to correspond to the size, shape and/or profile of the displayproduct 122 displayed in the display cavity 138.

In the depicted embodiment of FIG. 9, the modular display portion 140extends beyond the top of the door case 131 of the door assembly 130 andbeyond the bottom of the door case 131 of the door assembly 130. Theseextensions 155, 156 restrict the size and shape of return area and theretrieval area to define the single unit return opening 114 and thesingle unit retrieval opening 116, respectively. The depicted singleunit return opening 114 and the single unit retrieval opening 116 areeach sized and shaped to receive only a single product unit of aselected size, shape, and/or profile.

Although not shown, as discussed above, it may be desirable to onlyrestrict the size of the retrieval area to define a single unitretrieval opening. It may not be desirable to restrict the size of thereturn area. In such an embodiment, the modular display portion mayinclude only extension 156 and would not include extension 155. As aresult, larger or multiple products may be allowed to be returnedthrough the return area (depending upon its manufactured size) whileonly a single product may be retrieved through the single unit retrievalopening.

In other embodiments, the modular display portion 140 may also beconfigured to be adjustable. The modular display portion 140 may includeslide, ratchet, flip tabs, or other similar adjustment mechanisms bywhich the extensions 155 and 156 may be increased or decreased into thereturn and retrieval areas 104, 106. This adjustment may be used tocustomize the modular display portion to a selected product and would beperformed while the door assembly is in the open position. Adjustmentwould be prohibited when the door assembly is in the closed position.

Returning to the embodiments depicted in FIGS. 1 through 5, one or moreload block member(s) 142 may be disposed proximate the retrieval area106. In one embodiment, the load block member(s) 142 are biased toward ablocked position (as shown) that is structured to prevent a product frombeing returned into the storage area through the retrieval area 106. Theload block member(s) 142 may be hinged to allow retrieval of a productthrough the retrieval area 106. The depicted embodiment includes twoload block members 142 that are spaced apart to define an access port160 therebetween. The depicted load block member(s) 142 are configuredsuch that a user may grasp the bottom-most product within the storagearea via the access port 160 between the load block members. As shown inFIGS. 10A and 10B, the load block members 142 are driven from theblocked position in FIG. 10A to a retrieval position in FIG. 10B by theuser grasping the product within the storage area and withdrawing theproduct through the retrieval area.

In some embodiments, the load block members may be hingedly coupled tothe door assembly (not shown). In other embodiments, such as those shownin FIGS. 4, 10A and 10B, the load block members are coupled to themodular display portion by a hinge 143 such that the load block membersare configured to rotate from the blocked position to the retrievalposition about the hinge 143. In still other embodiments, the load blockmembers are biased toward the blocked position by a torsion springassociated with the hinge or other biasing mechanisms known in the art.

The door assembly may be configured to lock in the closed position. Thelock may be of a variety of known arrangements including among others,cam-locks, bolt-style locks, combination locks, and electromechanicallocks; however, the lock illustrated herein includes a sliding lockmechanism. The sliding lock mechanism of the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 9 includes a sliding lock member 136, a lock release 134, and alatching spring 135 to secure the sliding lock member 136 in place. Thesliding lock member 136 may be retained within the door assembly 130with the lock release 134 protruding through the door case 131 of thedoor assembly 130, wherein the lock release 134 is accessible from theoutside of the product display 100 when the door assembly is in theclosed position. The latching spring 135 may be a flat spring member asillustrated in FIG. 12 and may be disposed between the sliding lockmember 136 and the door assembly 130 and secured to the door assemblysuch that the sliding lock member 136 is disposed in a locked positionwhen the door assembly is closed and locked. The door assembly 130 mayinclude an alignment feature 260 shown in FIG. 11 to align a key 250with the latching spring 135. Upon aligning the magnetic key 250 withthe alignment feature 260 of the door assembly 130, the latching spring135 may be retracted to an unlatched position that allows the slidinglock member 136 to be moved to an unlocked position by sliding the lockrelease 134. When the sliding lock member 136 is in the locked position,the sliding lock member is securely engaged with locking tabs 113 thatare attached to the product supply module 110 as shown in FIG. 3. Whenthe sliding lock member 136 is in the unlocked position, the slidinglock member is disengaged from the locking tabs 113 and the doorassembly is allowed to pivot to the open position.

Referring back to FIG. 12, the locking tabs 113 of the product supplybin are generally L-shaped. The cavities 115 in the sliding lock member136 that correspond to each locking tab 113 allow the L-shaped lockingtabs 113 to be received when the sliding lock member 136 is in theunlocked position and prevent the locking tabs 113 from being disengagedfrom the sliding lock member 136 when the sliding lock member 136 is inthe locked position. The latching spring 135 engages the sliding lockmember 136 via recesses 137 in the sliding lock member when the slidinglock member 136 is in the locked position. Application of the magnetickey 250 aligned with the alignment feature 260 disengages the latchingspring 135 from the recesses 137 and allows the sliding lock member tobe slid to the unlocked position, thereby allowing the locking tabs 113to be disengaged from the recesses 115 in the sliding lock member 136.

As illustrated in FIG. 13, the product supply module 110 may containbiasing member 118 proximate the bottom of the storage area 129. Thebiasing member 118 urges the bottom-most product 124 toward the doorassembly 130 such that when the door assembly is in the closed position,the bottom-most product 124 is urged closer to the retrieval area 106.This aids removal of the bottom-most product 124 from the productdisplay 100 and further helps to separate products that might otherwisetend to stick together, e.g., products having a strong static attractiondue to their cellophane packaging. The biasing member 118 may furtherposition the bottom-most product 124 at least partially into theretrieval area 106 such that at least a portion of the product 124 sitsimmediately below the door assembly 130. As a result, the door assembly130 generally blocks and/or mechanically prevents a customer frominadvertently lifting the product 124 during or immediately prior toretrieval, which could result in mis-reads by the retrieval detector170. For example, if a bottom-most product were lifted upwardly (i.e.,the door assembly was not positioned to block such lifting) duringretrieval such that it was inadvertently lifted off and then returnedonto a contract switch retrieval detector of the type described below, asingle product retrieval could be improperly double-counted by theretrieval detector.

As illustrated in FIG. 14, a storage area insert 119 may be insertedinto the storage area 129 to configure the storage area to accommodateproducts of various sizes. The storage area insert 119 may include abiasing member 117 to urge the bottom-most product closer to theretrieval area as described above. The storage area insert 119 may beuseful for converting a product supply module configured to hold DVDs toaccommodate CDs that generally have a smaller size of packaging.Optionally, the storage area insert may be an adjustable back panel ofthe storage area 129 such that no separate parts are required. Such anembodiment may include a movable back panel and detents or alignmentgrooves in the product supply module to allow re-positioning of the backpanel at a number of pre-defined locations that correspond to typicalpackaging sizes.

The product display 100 may include a retrieval detector 170 positionedproximate the retrieval area 106 as shown in FIG. 13. The retrievaldetector 170 may be a standard contact switch such as the Wealth MX-1348Detect Switch, a button or plunger, a proximity sensor, an opticalsensor, or other sensing device known in the art. The retrieval detector170 may be disposed in communication with a processor 205 as shown inFIG. 18, and configured to generate a retrieval output, such as anelectrical signal, an optical signal, an electromagnetic transmission,or the like, whenever a product is removed from the retrieval area 106and/or the single unit retrieval opening depending on the application.For example, an electrical signal may be generated by a switch that isin a non-contact position when depressed, and a contact position whenreleased (normally closed). Thus the removal of a single product wouldcause the plunger to be released and close the electrical contacts togenerate an electrical signal. In another embodiment, the retrievaldetector may include a sensor or switch associated with a load blockmember such that a retrieval output is generated when the load blockmember is driven from the blocked position to the retrieval position.

In still other embodiments, the retrieval detector may be configured togenerate a storage output indicative of the quantity of productscontained in the storage area. For example, a switch, lever, or plungerpositioned on the bottom product support surface of the storage area asillustrated in FIGS. 3, 13, and 14 may serve as the retrieval detector170. The retrieval detector 170 not only generates a retrieval outputwhen individual products are removed but also is configured to generatea storage output when all products have been removed and the storagearea is empty, i.e., when no products remain to hold the retrievaldetector 170 in a depressed position.

As noted above, the retrieval detector 170 is disposed in communicationwith a processor and, in some embodiments; the storage output generatedby the retrieval detector may further be configured to initiate arestocking order, a shut-down procedure for the product display, avisual out-of-stock indicator on the display, or any other alert thatmay be appropriate. The retrieval detector 170 may also be configuredfor detecting abnormal operation such as rapid removal of product,indicating a potential shoplifting situation as will be describedfurther below.

In another embodiment, the product display apparatus may include areturn detector 172 proximate the return area 104 as shown in FIG. 13.The return detector 172 may be a standard contact switch such as WealthMX-1348 Detect Switch, a button or plunger, a proximity sensor, anoptical sensor, or other sensing device known in the art. The returndetector 172 may be in communication with a processor and configured togenerate a return output, such as an electrical signal, an opticalsignal, an electromagnetic transmission, or the like, whenever a productis returned to the return area 104. The return output may be a signalthat may be generated by a switch that is in a contact position whendepressed and a non-contact position when released (normally open).Thus, the insertion of a product would cause the switch to be depressed,closing the electrical contacts to generate an electrical signal.

The return detector 172 proximate the return area 104 may be configuredfor determining if a product has been returned to the storage area 129.As will be apparent to one of skill in the art in view of thisdisclosure, the return detector 172 may be used in connection with theretrieval detector 170 to reduce the number of false alerts or to moreaccurately monitor inventory levels. One such embodiment is discussedbelow in connection with FIG. 18.

In another embodiment, the return detector 172 proximate the return area104 may also be configured with the processor to determine the amount ofinventory that has been removed from the storage area 129 of the productsupply module 110 and not returned. For example, in one embodiment, theprocessor may be configured to monitor the number of products removedfrom the product supply module 110, the number of products returned tothe product supply module 110, and may further be disposed incommunication with a store checkout system so as to monitor the numberof products sold during a day. This may allow store personnel todetermine how many products were either misplaced within the store whena customer decided not to purchase the product, or how many productswere stolen. Such a system would also allow store personnel to determinethroughout a business day how many products likely are in transitbetween the product display module and the cashier or check-out area(i.e., products in possession of customers within the store).

Various embodiments of the invention may include a barcode reader, RFIDreader, or similar object authenticator disposed within the productdisplay module proximate the return area 104. Such an authenticator incommunication with the processor may be configured to ensure that acorrect or authentic product was returned to the storage area of theproduct supply module. If a product is inserted through the return area104 that does not correspond to the appropriate contents of the productsupply module 110, a visual cue may be presented at the product display100 or an alert may be sent to appropriate store personnel. The storepersonnel may then be dispatched to remedy the issue. Such a featurewould benefit customer satisfaction as it would ensure that the productremoved through the single unit retrieval opening 116 corresponds to theproduct displayed in the door assembly 130. Another function of such anauthentication system may be to maintain proper inventory counts by notcounting an improperly returned product. Further, a would-be shopliftermay try to by-pass a rapid removal alarm as discussed herein byinserting dummy products that do not correspond to the particularproduct in the product supply module of interest. Thus, in oneembodiment, an authenticator may be used to discern that an improper ornon-authentic product has been returned resulting in no return outputbeing generated and/or an alert being triggered.

The processor 205 may be embodied as various means implementing variousfunctionality of example embodiments of the present invention including,for example, a microprocessor, a coprocessor, a controller, aspecial-purpose integrated circuit such as, for example, an ASIC(application specific integrated circuit), an FPGA (field programmablegate array), or a hardware accelerator, processing circuitry or thelike. In some example embodiments, the processor 205 may, but need not,include one or more accompanying digital signal processors. In someexample embodiments, the processor 205 may be configured to executeinstructions stored in the memory device or instructions otherwiseaccessible to the processor 205. As such, whether configured by hardwareor via instructions stored on a computer-readable storage medium, or bya combination thereof, the processor 205 may represent an entity capableof performing operations according to embodiments of the presentinvention while configured accordingly. Thus, for example, when theprocessor 205 is embodied as an ASIC, FPGA or the like, the processor205 may be specifically configured hardware for conducting theoperations described herein. Alternatively, when the processor 205 isembodied as an executor of instructions stored on a computer-readablestorage medium, the instructions may specifically configure theprocessor 205 to perform the algorithms and operations described herein.However, in some cases, the processor 205 may be a processor of aspecific device (e.g., a product display apparatus) configured foremploying example embodiments of the present invention by furtherconfiguration of the processor 205 via executed instructions forperforming the algorithms and operations described herein.

According to an embodiment of the present invention the processor 205may be configured to detect a number of products removed from thestorage area through the single unit retrieval opening within a monitorperiod, detect the number of products returned to the storage areathrough the single unit return opening, subtract the number of productsreturned from the number of products removed to determine a productcount, and generate an alert upon the product count reaching apredetermined value. The processor may also be configured to set theproduct count to zero upon termination of the monitor period.

The aforementioned embodiment may be executed by the processorperforming the steps outlined in the flow diagram of FIG. 15. Themonitor period begins at step 700 and the processor determines if aproduct has been removed at step 710, and if so, adds to the number ofproduct units removed at step 720. The processor then determines if aproduct has been returned at 730, and if so, adds to the number ofproducts removed at step 740. The processor then increments a steptowards the end of the monitor period at step 750. The processordetermines if the monitor period has ended at step 760. If the monitorperiod has not ended, the processor returns to step 710 to determine ifanother product has been removed or returned. If the monitor period hasended, the processor may subtract the number of products returned fromthe number of products removed to determine a product count as shown atstep 770. If the product count is greater than the predetermined valueat step 780, an alert will be signaled at step 800. If the product countis not greater than the predetermined value, the products removed,products returned, and product count numbers will be reset at step 790and the process will start over at step 700.

According to another embodiment of the present invention, the processormay be configured to detect a second number of products removed from thestorage area through the single unit retrieval opening within a secondmonitor period, detect a second number of products returned to thestorage area through the single unit return opening, subtract the numberof products returned from the number of products removed to determine asecond product count, and generate a second alert upon the secondproduct count reaching the predetermined value. The second monitorperiod may at least partially overlap the monitor period.

Some embodiments of the present invention may include a recording devicethat records activity associated with the display apparatus to a memoryin response to the alert. Portions of the memory associated with thealert may be identified for review by an operator.

The product display apparatus 100 may be in wired electrical or wirelesscommunication with a controller 600 that may include a processor 205 formonitoring product displays as illustrated in FIG. 18. The controller600 may be physically located on or within the product display apparatus100 or may be located remotely. The processor 205 may be configured todetect a number of conditions at the product display 100 such as, butnot limited to, a storage output or an out-of-stock condition, arapid-removal condition, a door assembly open condition, and productdisplay apparatus tampering. The processor 205 may also be configured todetermine a number of products that have been removed during a monitorperiod or particular time-frame for purposes of inventory monitoring.

The processor 205 may also be configured to trigger an alert such as anaudible alarm, a visible alarm (e.g., a blinking LED, etc.), a signal ormessage to a computer, pager, email, text-messaging system, audio orvisual recording system (e.g., close circuit camera, etc.) or anycombination thereof. In one embodiment, the alert may trigger anotification that appears on the screen of a cash register to alertstore personnel to a condition associated with the product displayapparatus. In another embodiment, if a recording system having a videosurveillance camera is monitored within a retail store, the alert maytrigger the camera to focus on the location of the alert (i.e., thelocation of the display apparatus initiating the alert) and may draw theattention of the monitoring staff by highlighting an associatedsurveillance monitor.

Embodiments of the present invention may generate an alert by detectingthe withdrawal of a product from the storage area 129 through the singleunit retrieval opening 116 and initiating a timer to proceed to atime-out value in response to detecting the product withdrawal. Upondetecting the withdrawal of a second product from the storage area 129through the single unit retrieval opening 116 a counter may beincremented. Upon the counter reaching a predetermined value prior tothe timer reaching the time-out value, an alert may be signaled. Thepredetermined value and the time-out value are numbers that may be setby the user of the product display system.

In another embodiment, generating an alert may further include the stepsof detecting the return of a product to the storage area 129 through thereturn area 104 and decrementing the counter in response to detectingthe return of a product. The timer may also be terminated when thecounter is decremented to zero.

In still another embodiment of the present invention, generating analert may further include the steps of initiating a second timer toproceed to a second time-out value in response to detecting thewithdrawal of the second product from the storage area 129 through thesingle unit retrieval opening 116. Upon detecting the withdrawal of athird product, a second counter is incremented and an alert is signaledupon the second counter reaching a second predetermined value prior tothe second timer reaching the second time-out value. While in onepreferred embodiment the time-out value and the second time out valueare equal, and the predetermined value and the second predeterminedvalue are equal, it will be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in theart that these values (e.g., the time-out value and the second time-outvalue) may be different.

The method of generating an alert may also include recording activityassociated with the product display apparatus to a memory using arecording device and identifying portions of the memory associated withthe alert. Optionally, the method may comprise the step of activating arecording device to record activity associated with the product displayapparatus in response to an alert. An alarm, such as any of the typesidentified above, may be activated in response to the alert.

FIG. 16 depicts a flow diagram for illustrating a method for generatingan alert associated with a product display apparatus in accordance withone embodiment of the invention. The depicted method may be practiced bya processor executing computer readable instructions as will be apparentto one of skill in the art in view of this disclosure.

In the depicted embodiment, a processor detects a retrieval output froma product display at step 300, initiates a timer associated with theretrieval output at step 310, and initiates a counter associated withthe retrieval output at step 320. If a second retrieval output isdetected from the product display at step 350 before the first timerreaches the time-out value at step 330, the counter is incremented atstep 360 to a value of two, indicating that two products have beenremoved. Subsequent retrieval outputs indicating product removals willsimilarly increment the counter at step 360 provided the timer has notpreviously reached the time-out value at step 330. If the counterreaches the predetermined value at step 380 before the timer reaches thetimer time-out value at step 330, the alert is triggered at step 390indicating a rapid-removal condition. If the timer reaches theuser-defined time-out value at step 330 before the counter reached theuser-defined predetermined value at step 380 the routine ends withoutsignaling an alert.

The processor may be configured to initiate a new timer at step 310 anda new counter at step 320 with the detection of each retrieval output atstep 300. In such a system, the timers would be allowed to at leastpartially overlap or run concurrently such that a rapid-product removalcondition would always be detected provided a user-defined predeterminedvalue number of products were removed within the time limit of theuser-defined timer time-out value. An example of such user-definedvalues may be a predetermined value of 3 and a timer time-out value of10 seconds, though any values may be used. The processor may be incommunication with a controller that includes a user input, wherein theuser input may be configured such that the predetermined value isuser-selectable from a group of predetermined values, such as a rangefrom 2 to 10 and the timer time-out value may be user selectable from agroup of times, such as 5 seconds to 90 seconds in 5 second intervals.

The processor may further be configured to be in communication with aplurality of product displays, each including a retrieval detector. Insuch an embodiment, the processor may be configured to generate an alertfor each individual product display and/or generate an alert for theplurality of product displays as a whole i.e., the total productdisplay. For an embodiment that is configured to generate an alert foreach individual product display, the processor may be configured asoutlined above, and may be capable of simultaneously performing themethod for generating an alert for each individual product display. Toperform the method for generating an alert for the total productdisplay, the processor may be configured to run a timer for the totalproduct display while counting the retrieval output from any of theindividual product displays. In such an embodiment, the controller maybe configured with a total product display predetermined value and atotal product display time-out value. The logic used may be the same asthat illustrated in FIG. 16; however, any one of the retrieval outputsfrom any one of the plurality of product displays may initiate the totalproduct display timer and increment the total product display counter.Thus, if the total product display counter reached the total productdisplay predetermined value before the total product display timerreached the total product display time-out value, an alert would begenerated for the total product display.

In another embodiment, instead of initiating a new timer in response toeach retrieval output the processor may simply use a monitor periodduring which the processor tracks the numbers of products removed fromthe storage area during the monitor period. For example, the processormay track how many products are removed in rolling 5 second intervals(i.e., monitor periods). If the number of removed products during anyone monitor period exceeds a predetermined value (e.g., 3 products), analert may be triggered.

In another embodiment, the processor may be configured to determine afrequency associated with the receipt of the retrieval output (i.e.,products removed per unit of time) such that the processor may generatean alert upon the frequency exceeding a predetermined value (e.g., 1.2products/second).

FIG. 17 depicts a flow diagram illustrating a method for generating analert associated with a product display apparatus in accordance withanother embodiment of the invention. The method of FIG. 17 is similar tothat depicted in FIG. 16 except that while the first timer is running atstep 410, if a product is inserted into the return area at step 480(i.e., the product is detected by the return detector), the firstcounter may be decremented at step 490 to reflect a return. Such asystem may prevent a rapid-removal alert from occurring, for example,when five units are removed, but four units are returned while the timeris running provided the number of products removed minus the number ofproducts returned does not exceed the predetermined value while thetimer is running.

EXAMPLE

FIG. 18 depicts a display system structured in accordance with oneembodiment of the invention. The depicted display system includes adisplay structure 610 with a plurality of product displays 620. Eachproduct display 620 is structured generally as described in FIGS. 1-3and includes a retrieval detector (not shown) disposed proximate asingle unit retrieval opening. The retrieval detectors of each productdisplay 620 are disposed in communication with a controller 600including a processor 205. The controller 600 may be configured towirelessly transmit alert conditions from the processor 205 via atransmitter 630 to a receiver 640. The alarm device 650 may beconfigured to alert store personnel of a transmitted alert condition.

In the depicted embodiment, the controller 600 includes four settingsthat are adjustable by store personnel via a user interface (not shown)that is disposed in communication with the processor 205. The settingsinclude: single product display predetermined value 601; single productdisplay time-out value 602; total product display predetermined value603; and total product display time-out value 604. The single productdisplay predetermined value 601 refers to a predetermined number ofproducts removed from the single unit retrieval opening of a singleproduct display before the alert is signaled. The single product displaytime-out value 602 refers to a monitor period or time window duringwhich an alert is signaled if the predetermined value 601 is reached.Similarly, the total product display predetermined value 603 refers to apredetermined number of products removed from the single unit retrievalopenings of all of the product displays associated with the displaystructure before the alert is signaled. The total product displaytime-out value 604 is the monitor period or time window during which thetotal product display predetermined value 603 must be reached to signalan alert.

In various embodiments, each of the settings above may be separatelyadjusted at the user interface of the controller 600 and communicated tothe processor 205. For example, the single product display predeterminedvalue 601 may be two, while the single product display time-out value602 may be five seconds. In this example, if two or more products areremoved from the single unit retrieval opening of a single productdisplay in less than five seconds, then an alert will be signaled. Ifthe total product display predetermined value 603 is set to five and thetotal product display time-out value 604 is set to ten seconds, theremoval of five products from any combination of product displays in tenseconds will cause the processor 205 to signal an alert.

The alert generated in the example above may initiate a signal sentwirelessly by a transmitter 630 that is in communication with thecontroller 600 to a receiver 640 in an alarm device 650 that ispositioned at a monitor location near store personnel (e.g., a checkoutor cash register location). Upon the alert being signaled, the storepersonnel may be notified by the alarm device so that they may respondto the condition causing the alert. As discussed above, the alarm deviceneed not be a loud audible alarm and may be a subtle display that isonly noticed by the employees such that the customer experience withinthe store is not negatively affected. Further, the subtle alert that isnot heard or seen by customers ensures that well-meaning customers whomight accidently trigger the alarm do not suffer undue embarrassmentthat may be associated with signaling a loud audible alarm.

In another embodiment, the alert transmitted by transmitter 630 may alsobe received by a recording system 660 such as a closed circuittelevision (CCTV) system. The depicted recording system includes videocamera disposed in communication with a digital video recorder (DVR). Inother embodiments, other memory devices may be used instead of the DVRsuch as a VHS tape recording device, a DVD recording device, or anyother video recording device.

Returning to the depicted embodiment, when the alert is received by theDVR, the DVR may engage the camera to begin recording video of theenvironment surrounding the product supply module(s) associated with thealert, or if the DVR is already recording, the recorded video data maybe bookmarked to identify portions of the video data associated with thealert for subsequent review, analysis, and/or cataloging.

Many modifications and other embodiments of the invention set forthherein will come to mind to one skilled in the art to which thisinvention pertains having the benefit of the teachings presented in theforegoing descriptions and the associated drawings. Therefore, it is tobe understood that the inventions are not to be limited to the specificembodiments disclosed and that modifications and other embodiments areintended to be included within the scope of the appended claims.Although specific terms are employed herein, they are used in a genericand descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation.

That which is claimed:
 1. A product display apparatus comprising: aproduct supply module comprising a support frame and defining a storagearea; a door assembly coupled to the support frame and structured toprovide bulk access to the storage area in an open position and toprevent bulk access to the storage area in a closed position; a returnarea defined between the door assembly and the support frame proximate afirst side of the door assembly; a retrieval area defined between thedoor assembly and the support frame proximate a second side of the doorassembly; a modular display portion coupled to the door assembly,wherein the modular display portion extends at least partially into theretrieval area to define a single unit retrieval opening having a singleunit retrieval opening profile; a retrieval detector positionedproximate the single unit retrieval opening and configured to generate aretrieval output in response to a product being withdrawn from thesingle unit retrieval opening; and a processor disposed in communicationwith the retrieval detector and configured to receive the retrievaloutput, wherein the processor is configured to determine a frequencyassociated with receipt of the retrieval output, and wherein theprocessor is further configured to generate an alert upon the frequencyexceeding a predetermined value.
 2. The product display apparatus ofclaim 1, further comprising a biasing member structured to urge theproduct at least partially into the single unit retrieval opening andbelow the door assembly such that the door assembly blocks lifting ofthe product prior to the product being withdrawn from the single unitretrieval opening.
 3. The product display apparatus of claim 1, whereinthe processor initiates a timer and a counter upon receiving theretrieval output, wherein the processor increments the counter uponreceipt of a second retrieval output, and wherein if counter reachespredetermined value before the timer reaches a time-out value theprocessor generates an alert.
 4. The product display apparatus of claim1, wherein the retrieval detector is configured to generate a storageoutput when the storage area is empty.
 5. The product display apparatusof claim 1, further comprising a return detector positioned proximatethe single unit return opening and configured to generate a returnoutput in response to a product being returned through the single unitreturn opening.
 6. The product display apparatus of claim 5, furthercomprising a processor disposed in communication with the retrievaldetector and the return detector, and wherein the processor isconfigured to receive the retrieval output and the return output.
 7. Theproduct display apparatus of claim 6, wherein the processor initiates atimer and a counter upon receiving the retrieval output, wherein theprocessor increments the counter upon receipt of a second retrievaloutput, and wherein if counter reaches predetermined value before thetimer reaches a time-out value the processor generates an alert.
 8. Theproduct display apparatus of claim 6, wherein the processor is furtherconfigured to decrement the counter upon receipt of the return output.9. A method of generating an alert associated with a product displayapparatus having a storage area, a single unit retrieval opening, and areturn area, the method comprising: detecting withdrawal of a productfrom the storage area through the single unit retrieval opening;initiating a timer to proceed to a time-out value in response todetecting withdrawal of the product from the storage area through thesingle unit retrieval opening; detecting withdrawal of a second productfrom the storage area through the single unit retrieval opening;incrementing a counter in response to detecting withdrawal of the secondproduct from the storage area through the single unit retrieval opening;and signaling an alert upon the counter reaching a predetermined valueprior to the timer reaching the time-out value.
 10. The method of claim9, further comprising: detecting return of the product or the secondproduct to the storage area through the return area; and decrementingthe counter in response to detecting return of the product or the secondproduct to the storage area through the return area.
 11. The method ofclaim 9, further comprising: initiating a second timer to proceed to asecond time-out value in response to detecting withdrawal of the secondproduct from the storage area through the single unit retrieval opening;detecting withdrawal of a third product from the storage area throughthe single unit retrieval opening; incrementing a second counter inresponse to detecting withdrawal of the third product from the storagearea through the single unit retrieval opening; and signaling a secondalert upon the second counter reaching a second predetermined valueprior to the second timer reaching the second time-out value.
 12. Themethod of claim 11, wherein the predetermined value is equal to thesecond predetermined value.
 13. The method of claim 11, wherein thetime-out value is equal to the second time-out value.
 14. The method ofclaim 9, further comprising: terminating the timer when the counter isdecremented to zero.
 15. The method of claim 9, further comprising:recording activity associated with the product display apparatus to amemory using a recording device; and identifying portions of the memoryassociated with the alert.
 16. The method of claim 9, furthercomprising: activating a recording device to record activity associatedwith the product display apparatus to a memory in response to the alert.17. The method of claim 9, further comprising: activating an alarm inresponse to the alert.
 18. A method of generating an alert associatedwith a plurality of product display apparatuses, each having a storagearea, a single unit retrieval opening, and a return area, the methodcomprising: detecting withdrawal of a product from the storage areathrough the single unit retrieval opening of any one of the plurality ofproduct display apparatuses; initiating a timer to proceed to a time-outvalue in response to detecting withdrawal of the product from thestorage area through the single unit retrieval opening of any one of theplurality of product display apparatuses; detecting withdrawal of asecond product from the storage area through the single unit retrievalopening of any one of the plurality of product display apparatuses;incrementing a counter in response to detecting withdrawal of the secondproduct from the storage area through the single unit retrieval openingof any one of the plurality of product display apparatuses; andsignaling an alert upon the counter reaching a predetermined value priorto the timer reaching the time-out value.
 19. An apparatus comprisingprocessing circuitry, the processing circuitry being configured tocontrol the apparatus to at least: detect withdrawal of a first productfrom a storage area for a plurality of products; initiate a timer toproceed to a time-out value in response to detecting withdrawal of thefirst product from the storage area; detect withdrawal of a secondproduct from the storage area; increment a counter in response todetecting withdrawal of the second product from the storage area; andsignal an alert upon the counter reaching a predetermined value prior tothe timer reaching the time-out value.
 20. The apparatus of claim 19,wherein the processing circuitry is further configured to control theapparatus to: detect return of the first product or the second productto the storage area; and decrement the counter in response to detectingreturn of the first product or the second product to the storage area.21. The apparatus of claim 19, wherein the processing circuitry isfurther configured to: initiate a second timer to proceed to a secondtime-out value in response to detecting withdrawal of the second productfrom the storage area; detect withdrawal of a third product from thestorage area; increment a second counter in response to detectingwithdrawal of the third product from the storage area; and signal asecond alert upon the second counter reaching a second predeterminedvalue prior to the second timer reaching the second time-out value. 22.The apparatus of claim 21, wherein the predetermined value is equal tothe second predetermined value.
 23. The apparatus of claim 21, whereinthe time-out value is equal to the second time-out value.
 24. Theapparatus of claim 19, wherein the processing circuitry is furtherconfigured to terminate the timer when the counter is decremented tozero.
 25. The apparatus of claim 19, wherein the processing circuitry isfurther configured to control the apparatus to: record activityassociated with the apparatus to a memory using a recording device; andidentify portions of the memory associated with the alert.
 26. Theapparatus of claim 19, wherein the processing circuitry is furtherconfigured to control the apparatus to activate a recording device torecord activity associated with the apparatus to a memory in response tothe alert.
 27. The apparatus of claim 19, wherein the processingcircuitry is further configured to control the apparatus to activate analarm in response to the alert.
 28. The apparatus according to claim 19,wherein the processing circuitry configured to control the apparatus tosignal the alert is further configured to control the apparatus togenerate a notification as the alert.
 29. The apparatus according toclaim 28, wherein the processing circuitry configured to control theapparatus to generate a notification is further configured to send thenotification as a message to at least one of a computer, pager, email,text-messaging system, or cash register.
 30. A method comprising:detecting withdrawal of a first product from a storage area for aplurality of products; initiating a timer to proceed to a time-out valuein response to detecting withdrawal of the first product from thestorage area; detecting withdrawal of a second product from the storagearea; incrementing a counter in response to detecting withdrawal of thesecond product from the storage area; and signaling an alert upon thecounter reaching a predetermined value prior to the timer reaching thetime-out value.
 31. The method of claim 30, further comprising:detecting return of the first product or the second product to thestorage area; and decrementing the counter in response to detectingreturn of the first product or the second product to the storage area.32. The method of claim 30, further comprising: initiating a secondtimer to proceed to a second time-out value in response to detectingwithdrawal of the second product from the storage area; detectingwithdrawal of a third product from the storage area; incrementing asecond counter in response to detecting withdrawal of the third productfrom the storage area; and signaling a second alert upon the secondcounter reaching a second predetermined value prior to the second timerreaching the second time-out value.
 33. The method of claim 32, whereinthe predetermined value is equal to the second predetermined value. 34.The method of claim 32, wherein the time-out value is equal to thesecond time-out value.
 35. The method of claim 30, further comprisingterminating the timer when the counter is decremented to zero.
 36. Themethod of claim 30, further comprising: recording activity associatedwith the apparatus to a memory using a recording device; and identifyingportions of the memory associated with the alert.
 37. The method ofclaim 30, further comprising activating a recording device to recordactivity associated with the apparatus to a memory in response to thealert.
 38. The method of claim 30, further comprising activating analarm in response to the alert.
 39. The method according to claim 30,wherein signaling an alert comprises generating a notification as thealert.
 40. The method according to claim 39, wherein generating thenotification comprises sending the notification as a message to at leastone of a computer, pager, email, text-messaging system, or cashregister.